R18+ games bill passes lower house

Computer game ratings for adults-only are a step closer after the lower house passed legislation on Monday.

The laws fulfil the commonwealth's part of a deal with states and territories to include an R18+ rating in the games classification system.

At ppresent the highest rating for computer games has been MA15+, which means games only for sale to adults overseas are usually banned or given the lower classification so children can still obtain them here.

The new laws will bring computer games in line with the classification system for films and make Australia more consistent with international standards.

They have received overwhelming support during years of consultation - one discussion paper received more than 58,000 submissions. with most in favour.